IrisD Bridal Blog

Day of wedding is the most precious day for a woman, aside wedding dress and veil, bridal jewelry is an indispensable accessory that enhances the grace of the bride. Bridal jewelry includes tiara, necklace earring set, bracelet and various headpieces, bride can choose their jewelry from a variety of different materials and gemstones to meet their personal preference. These days, the most popular bridal jewelry material includes Swarovski crystals, pearls, rhinestone, sterling silver or plated silver or gold.

Most of these wedding jewelry can be used later either for special occasions or every day depending on the particular piece. And in any case, it is important for bride to understand how to care for these jewelry so that bridal jewelry can last for a long time and may be can be even used as a heritage piece later.

 It is a good idea to keep all your beloved gems out of pools and hot tubs -and off the beach. Chlorine and heat can discolor the metal and erode the finish on gold and platinum items. Chlorine and salt can alter the color of porous gemstones such as pearls, opals, and emeralds. For those brides who are going to do a destination wedding or honeymoon on sunny beach, sand can scratch stones and soft metals such as 24-karat gold. If you do take a dip with your baubles (or sweat or get sunscreen on them), rinse them immediately afterward with warm water from the tap. When you get home, gently scrub them with a soft toothbrush dipped in warm water and a few drops of dish soap.

Take good care of your wedding jewelry will make sure that your most cherished moments are well preserved and can be used and shared generations after generations.

IrisD Bridal is opening their first boutique in Tempe, AZ, providing Brides-to-be the opportunity to customize their entire wedding ensemble with unlimited options.

IrisD is the only store in the US that exclusively features Mirella, a dress line directly designed and imported from France. The fashion forward designs are breath taking.

Tempe, AZ (PRWEB) February 8, 2010 — From simple glamour to dramatic couture, IrisD Bridal offers limitless possibilities for brides. IrisD Bridal is the first Arizona bridal store that provides full customization options on dresses, veils, and jewelry therefore providing a unique, personalized shopping experience for brides-to-be. With direct relationships with vendors and manufacturers, brides are able to customize their entire ensemble to reflect their individual style.

IrisD is the only store in the US that exclusively features Mirella, a dress line directly designed and imported from France. The fashion forward designs are breath taking, “I’ve never seen dresses like these [Mirella]. They are so very unique,” said by brides at the January 2010 Arizona Bridal Show. The boutique also features talented independent local or out-of-state designers who make hand-made wedding attire and accessories. They are able to create desired looks that are personalized chic and unique.

“Our first bridal boutique reinforces the dedication to offering unlimited customization options on bridal gowns, veils, and jewelry, highlighting each bride’s unique style,” explains Iris Drevet, owner of IrisD Bridal. “We value our brides and are committed to exceptional personalized service for a relaxed shopping experience.”

In addition to bridal gowns, IrisD Bridal offers a vast selection of wedding veils, wedding and special occasion jewelry, and custom gifts.

On Saturday, March 27th, and Sunday, March 28th, in celebration of Grand Opening, everything in the store will be 25% off. Store regular hours are Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and by appointment on Monday through Wednesday.

The new IrisD Bridal boutique is located at:
520 West Warner Road, Tempe AZ 85284

About IrisD Bridal:
IrisD Bridal began as a dream five years ago online to offer store quality, unique products at affordable prices. IrisD Bridal is a global brand that has been featured in several bridal shows for several years. Since its inception, IrisD Bridal has provided brides-to-be with a wide selection of veils and jewelry, and has recently expanded to include a full line of bridal gowns, designed by local and international designers. In addition to beautiful gowns and unique bridal accessories, IrisD Bridal offers brides-to-be a customized boutique shopping experience that will create memories to last a lifetime.

You have the ring.  The dream of your big day has begun.  Next, most brides-to-be begin shopping for their perfect wedding dress.  At first, it may seem a little overwhelming with so many choices of styles and different stores. 

There are 5 simple things to keep in mind to make the most of your dress shopping experience.

First:  Educate Yourself

Look at bridal magazines such as Brides and search The knot and other online wedding sites for possible styles.  It is good to have an idea of what you may/may not like when you visit a store.

Second:  Make Appointments

By making an appointment, you will receive more dedicated time and attention.  Try to avoid the busiest times of the day.  Standard appointments last approximately 1 and a half hours to give brides the comfortable opportunity to try on a selection of dresses.

Third:  Be Open Minded

Bridal consultants may suggest different styles for you to try on.  You may be surprised at how beautiful and flattering a bridal gown may look on you rather than just on the hanger.

Fourth:  Take Some Essentials With You

1.  Undergarments such as a strapless bra.

2.  Try to wear neutral color panties.  You want to feel comfortable trying your dress on in front of other people without the worry of prints showing through.

3.  Pictures of wedding dresses you like. Examples give consultants a visual idea of your personal style.

4.  Someone to support you.  One to three people is ideal.  Too many people can make your experience chaotic instead of magical.

Fifth:  You’re a Princess

Remember above all, you are shopping for YOUR big day.  You deserve to be treated and look like a princess.  Make sure feel comfortable with your purchase and know you look your very best.  Never settle.  Bridal stores like IrisD Bridal can customize your dress and design it to fit your unique style.  Some may may also offer accessories such as wedding veils, tiaras, and bridal jewelry that coordinate with your dress.  Be sure to ask if such options are available.

Time is ticking on finding the perfect wedding venue. No one said this would be an easy task. On another thought, you really may have no clue what to do when it comes to scouting out a venue and figuring out the next steps. I’m here to tell you that this is your first step after the engagement because your entire wedding hinges on the location of your ceremony and reception (of course, this is easier when both at same location). The venue sets the tone and allows you to select colors, styles, and food choices that fit your preferences.

Close To Home

Choosing a venue close to home saves time and money. This allows you to closely monitor all the special details and take tours of the venue open houses. This is a great way to select local vendors and have a green, eco-friendly wedding. Arizona also provides gorgeous sunsets and many fine venues that range from reception only sites to full-service resorts. Some venues require your vendor choices be selected from a preapproved list. This may help you find ease at “shopping” at once but may limit your favorite photographer that you can’t live without.

Stateside Selections

In all its beautiful colors and landscape, Arizona does miss the unmistakable beachside views that you yearn to see in your pictures. You may find wish to for a beach wedding soaking up the rays on the beach. Take a weekend trip six months or more prior to wedding to meet with potential vendors. Contact area venues for their vendor recommendations as this will be a current referral (vendor lists are seldom updated online).

Tropical or International Calling Card

The economy is not the only factor driving this exciting romance getaway. Your friends and family play a large part in attendance on your day. Determine if your friends and family will need a passport and/or visa for your destination wedding. I strongly recommend using a travel planner for booking hotel and flights. The Swine Flu was a big roadblock for weddings and honeymooners in 2009 causing resort closures all over. Be prepared for any unexplained natural or biomedical disaster and renovations that may leave you stranded. Destination weddings can truly be a breathtaking and magical experience for you and your guests when planned out.

Copyright © 2009 – Valerie Bolitho. Valerie Bolitho is the owner of Blueprint Affairs, Wedding & Event Planning. As a wedding planner, she can assist with everything from day-of-event coordination to full wedding planning. With attention to detail and never settling for anything short of your vision, Blueprint Affairs strives for excellence and will truly make your event one to remember. At Blueprint Affairs, Your Vision is Our Blueprint. Visit them online at www.blueprintaffairs.com

Staying involved in the small details can be difficult. There are so many other things that you want to worry about such as where you get married and what food will be served. Working with a wedding planner will ensure that you have this detail completed on your checklist.

The most important thing to never forget on your day is the marriage license. This is a quick checklist to know what to do and where to go, which seems so stressful. For those of you new to this process, listen up because it’s actually quite simple.

Marriage License Process:

1. Determine if you want a Traditional or Covenant Marriage (see Covenant Marriage link below)
2. Gather proper identification for both parties such as driver’s license.
3. Both parties must be present at appointment. (see locations by county #5)
4. Both parties must be 18 yrs old or older (If younger, the minor is required to bring a parent/guardian along with minor’s birth certificate)
5. Bring fee in acceptable form designated by county.

Three Larger Counties

i.      Maricopa County

ii.      Pinal County

iii.      Pima County

1. Mail in your signed marriage license after your wedding ceremony (be sure to request 2 copies)
2. Wait 4-6 weeks to receive the official license from the state before changing your name.

Note: Marriage license is valid immediately and up to one year. No blood tests are required.

Other Links:

Covenant Marriage – What is it? Do I want this?

Marriage License Research

Written by: Valerie Bolitho | Blueprint Affairs || Wedding & Event Planning.  Call 623-215-8657 for a free initial consultation.  Check out our website for more planning tips at  www.blueprintaffairs.com www.blueprintaffairs.blogspot.com

Meet the couple…

Bride’s Occupation:  Nurse-RN

Groom’s Occupation:  Phoenix Firefighter

Their Engagement Story:

People say they never believe in love at 1^st sight.  Well, Tonija has changed that theory. She met her heart on a beautiful summer day.  She was just starting to like boys at the time.  She took one look at Keon and said, “This man will become my husband.”  From that day forwarded, she never thought about who she would marry just when she would marry. It wasn’t until a couple of years later that they started dating. He was more than a man to her; he was her friend, the one she could share all her dreams and thoughts with.  Tonija could cry on, laugh with, and laugh at.  He made her smile when no one could.  Their relationship was more than they could have every imagined it to be. As day to day went on and as they got older, Tonija said to Keon at the age of 21 that nothing mattered because she was going to be he’s wife and he looked at her with the strangest face as if she could have been a little off the wall crazy.  He never knew that she saw something he didn’t in their relationship.  She saw real love; true love, two hearts put together and made into one whole at that time. He never had in his mind that he would be hers and she would be his. Through all troubles and all rocky mountains of testing, they passed and stand to be the best. She, taking life one day at a time and asking God for all his many blessings, she knew that the day will come when Keon would ask her for his hand in marriage and she would say, “Yes.”  It was so awkward because, he proposed out of no where.  When at the very moment she didn’t expect it, he had the biggest smile on his face and he was more excited than she had ever seen him all the years they had been together.  It was as if he had a glow inside of him.  Something that was so deep; it was like the love had taken over his body and he could help himself, but oh boy were we both excited!  They were so anxious but they just wanted to have are wedding in Vegas, but knew they couldn’t afford it.  They also thought about their have families never been there. They wanted the biggest wedding ever.  They decided to plan a year ahead for a wedding and decided that they would marry in July 2010.
Their Wedding Day Theme Plan

Their dream wedding is the summer kind of wedding with bright beautiful yellow; Tonija’s girls shining like the sun on a summer beautiful day like the season when Tonija and Keon met.  The glow of the yellow will brighten every ones day.   Their importance is their families being there.  They will post memorial pictures of the people in their life that have passed, meant the world to them, and have made a difference in our lives; his grandmother and her father.  They’re pictures in front of them, looking as if they where there sharing are day with them putting smiles not only on our faces, but on family members faces.

What the couple believes is special about their wedding that makes them feel they should win this free sponsorship…

Although all weddings are special, mine is special because of the delight that we have in sharing in our love; our commitment and our seriousness to become as one no matter what.  Our dedication to be lawfully devoted to one another and make this day a special day, sharing each others heart with one another, crying when we needed to, knowing that our relationship has been through some tremendous struggles, and have been able to share our story with people.  We tell them to know that threw it all you can get there if you believe and make yourself determine to succeed.  I’m not going say are years have been perfect ,but what I will say is that we have made it through some tough times and where still standing.  We have broken are childhood and immature ways together and have come to say that we want to be as one whole. A lot of young people find themselves saying that they’re in love at such a young age and deciding to get married at 18 which some may be ,but for us to experience good and bad times with one another became a learning and thankful process.  We wouldn’t be where we are today if we had not gone through those things and to say we still love each other; no one can break the seal.

To help this couple win:

Cast Your Vote on

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Meet the couple…

Bride’s Occupation:  Convention/Event Manager at the Marriott

Groom’s Occupation:  Assistant General Manager at Montis La Casa Vieja Restaurant

Their Engagement Story:

The Casa

Where it all began: The History of Montis La Casa Vieja

Monti’s La Casa Vieja is the city’s original pioneer home and the oldest continuously occupied structure in the Phoenix metropolitan area.  The original adobe hacienda was built as a home by Charles Trumbull Hayden in 1871.  Hayden settled in the area to establish a flourmill and a ferry service for crossing the Salt River, which flowed year-round at that time.  In 1954 the building was purchased by Leonard F. Monti Sr.  By concentrating on a simple formula of giving guests an outstanding meal at a great price, Leonard Monti steadily built his business into one of Arizona’s premier restaurants.  Today, Monti’s La Casa Vieja serves approximately 500,000 customers annually.

In diapers and a pacifier, Monique joined in on the monthly festivities at “The Casa” with her family.  Any time the Baart family would have out of town guests, they would treat them to a night of Roman Bread and Monti’s steaks!  The outings lasted up into her teen years.  Just old enough to have a job, Monique applied, interviewed, and landed the job as hostess at Good Old Montis La Casa Vieja!

At the Age of 22, young James Rowe from Spring Valley New York, followed his older brother across the country to live in the Valley of the Sun, Tempe, Arizona.  Seeing an ad in the paper, James applied for a job at “Montis at the Ranch,” a sister restaurant of Montis La Casa Vieja.  Skilled in bartending, the manager suggested he work at “The Casa” instead.  Days later, James became a bartender at Good Old Montis La Casa Vieja!

A young student from Tempe Arizona meets a bartender from Spring Valley New York.

Monique at 16 and James at 25 became co-workers, but were worlds apart!  Monique worked her way up to server; James worked his way up to head bartender.  James proved his integrity and hard work becoming Bar Manager.  Monique was offered the Banquet Manager position.  Five years later, Monique and James joined together on the Managers Team at Montis La Casa Vieja.  Once just co-workers, had now become friends spending holidays and special occasions together. Through trial and error, both Monique and James dated other people before realizing their humor, laughter, and love was with each other.

3 Years later, Christmas Day of 2009, James proposed to Monique under their Christmas tree.  She said “Yes”

“It doesn’t matter where you go in life; it’s who you have beside you that makes it worthwhile”

Their Wedding Day Theme Plan

Getting Married!!  Monique wishes she could say that she doesn’t let the little things stress her, but that just wouldn’t be the truth!  After deciding which invitation looks better, if the green dresses are the same green in the chair colors, fighting with dad because the photographer might cost a little bit more than they expected, and what to do with your bridesmaid that got pregnant unexpectedly…Once it’s all over and done…..every day she has to remind herself that this stuff doesn’t matter, the most important thing is that they have decided to share their lives together, and they are lucky to have so many friends and family to support them.

Oh yes and the important facts – the classic color of black -so elegant with some Ivory and a couple dashes of Lime green.  On the tables, you will find modern damask lamps and Candelabra’s with lime green satin napkins on top of damask runners.  It is a little modern meeting classic.  Yes, this is all planned out thanks to Monique’s job of being an event coordinator – this is her passion and she is so excited to show James her hard work when he sees the venue for the first time on our wedding day.

What the couple believes is special about their wedding that makes them feel they should win this free sponsorship…

We have both seen our lives grow from when we entered the hospitality/Food and Beverage business as inexperienced young adults.  It has been a long road of preparing the perfect day for our clients.  From the food preparation to the room being perfect!  Dealing with clients and their emotional rollercoaster…We are now walking in their footsteps and planning our special day!  We hope to experience that perfect day, as we have done for others!  Marriage is an amazing thing and we are excited to start the journey!

To help this couple win:

Cast Your Vote on

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Meet the couple…

Bride’s Occupation:  Teacher

Groom’s Occupation:  Sales (Laid off)

Their Engagement Story:

Benjamin and Nicole have known each other since high school.  However, they didn’t start dating until afterwards.  Ben and Nicole dated once and broke up, but never seemed to stray to far from each other.  Eventually, they got back together and knew it was forever.  One day, Ben went out and bought a ring, and it totally burnt a whole in his pocket!!  He couldn’t keep it a secret for his life.  Every night he tried doing it, but in the end decided against it.  Until one night when she was in class at ASU, he text her and said, “Lets go to dinner.”  She didn’t feel like going out, but she knew what he had planned since he had text all of her friends in class telling them what he was going to do.  He picked her up from class and took her to a local restaurant in Old Town Scottsdale.  He pulled out three roses and explained to Nicole, “One was for the past, one is for the present, and one is for the future.”  On the “Future” rose, the engagement ring was tied to it!! It was so beautiful!! It brought tears to Nicole’s eyes.  As soon as he finished, he said, “Did you like it, I came up with it all by myself!!”  Everyone else had given him ideas, but he wanted to do his own thing, which made it that much better.

Their Wedding Day Theme Plan

Ben and Nicole are getting married at Scottsdale Stadium where the San Francisco Giants Spring Train.  They aren’t Giant fans, but they both grew up in Scottsdale so the stadium has a specific meaning to the two of them.  They used to go there for Scottsdale Firebird games before the Diamondbacks became a franchise.  Nicole is a huge baseball fan so she had always dreamed of getting married at home plate.  This was a perfect opportunity.  Another reason they are using the stadium is because her scholarship for college was paid for through the Scottsdale Charros, which is a non profit organization that supports education in Scottsdale and they have a pavilion in the stadium.  Their colors are black, red, and white since they are very simple to work with on a low budget.  Ben was recently laid off  so paying for a wedding on a teaching budget is very tough.

What the couple believes is special about their wedding that makes them feel they should win this free sponsorship…

I think Ben and I should win this sponsorship because our idea for our wedding is the idea of an “American Dream”, staying close to home, baseball, family, friends, and a whole lot of FUN.  Through our wedding at the stadium, we will be living our “Dream.”  Having your sponsorship would just complete the “Dream” atmosphere of everything.  I have always dreamed of wearing gorgeous jewelry at my wedding, but without this sponsorship, I will just go without since it isn’t in my budget.  I understand everyone is having money troubles, but I am trying my best to work towards giving myself my “Dream” just on my not so dreamy salary.

To help this couple win:

Cast Your Vote on

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Meet the couple…

Bride’s Occupation:  Para-professional

Groom’s Occupation:  Teacher

Their Engagement Story

Marcel and September met at her job. His mother works in the front office with Roxanna. It was an instant connection and they have been going strong since then. Marcel proposed on Christmas and it was totally unexpected. They woke up Christmas morning and went into their living room to exchanging gifts. He had Christmas music on and the Yule log burning on the TV. She opened her gift and he gave her a porcelain Christmas tree. He then explained why he gave her the tree. Marcel told Roxanne how Christmas was his favorite holiday and it was a very special time for him. Then he got down on one knee took the ring out told her that he wanted to spend the rest of his Christmas’s with her and asked her to marry him.

 Their Wedding Day Theme Plan

Their wedding is going to be in February next year. Their colors are black, white, and a deep red. The theme is a classic elegant wedding in February, the month of love. They want it to be a special day that they are able to share with all of our family and close friends.

What the couple believes is special about their wedding that makes them feel they should win this free sponsorship?

We believe that our story is a fairy tale it was love at first sight. We are so blessed and fortunate to have found each other. We just want all of the planning and the big day to run smoothly. Our wedding day will be the beginning to the rest of our lives together. We know that our vows and commitment to each other is what’s really important and everything else is second.
To help this couple win:

Cast Your Vote on

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Meet the couple…

Bride’s Occupation:  Engineer

Groom’s Occupation:  Entrepreneur

Their Engagement Story

Back in August ‘06, Roxanne and Matt met eyes across the dance floor at a dimly lit club in Old Town Scottsdale. He continued to woo her w/ his charm and a cocktail and they’ve been together ever since.

In February ‘08, Matt made Valentine’s dinner reservations at La Fontanella which was sign #1 b/c that is HIGHLY unusual for him to make reservations anywhere. Then he was oddly quiet all evening and seemed visibly nervous which clued me even further. They had a delicious Italian dinner that was followed by a heart-shaped cheesecake for dessert. When the server brought it out, Roxanne immediately noticed the ring pop that was in the middle of the cake. Matt then got down on one knee and asked her to marry him. She thought she had managed to utter a “yes” in b/w sobs until a guy across the restaurant yelled, “So what did she say?!” Needless to say, she accepted.

Their Wedding Day Theme Plan

Their wedding colors are black & fuchsia w/ lime green highlights. As for their dream wedding, the most important aspect of it is for their family and close friends to be a part of the day that Matt and Roxanne exchange our wedding vows. They both are extremely close to their families, especially their mothers, so the day will definitely be an emotional one.  

What the couple believes is special about their wedding that makes them feel they should win this free sponsorship?

I come from a very traditional Korean family while Matt has German lineage and was born and raised here in the states. Our wedding will be a meeting of 2 very different cultures and symbolize 2 very different people joining to create a new life together. We’re both very blessed to each have such an amazing family willing to travel across the states (and some across the world) to celebrate our special day w/ us.

To help this couple win:

Cast Your Vote on

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tempe-AZ/IrisD-Bridal/140293870712

http://www.bridetide.com/users/irisdbridal/items